Mild new ‘side effect’ of Covid boosters reported, docs say
A MILD new side effect of the Covid booster shots is being reported, doctors say.
As with any vaccine, it's expected that when someone has a booster jab they might feel some mild side effects, similar to being "under the weather".
Pain at the injection site, fatigue and body aching are among the most recognised symptoms.
But, according to anecdotal reports, you may experience dehydration, or extra thirst, after your top-up shot.
It comes as the NHS ramps up its Covid booster campaign, in a bid to turbocharge the country's immunity amid fears of the new Omicron variant.
Seven million more Brits can now book their life-saving booster jab after health chiefs cut the gap between second and third doses from six to three months.
And in a bid to speed out the rollout if you had your second jab earlier than October 8 and are over 40, you can book your booster a month before it's due.
Officials say the rollout will gradually open up to younger Brits later in the month.
NHS chief executive Amanda Pritchard said: “The biggest and most successful vaccination drive in health service history is entering its most complex phase and is continuing at speed in the run-up to Christmas.
“On the anniversary of the first vaccine in the world, the latest update from the NHS means an additional seven million people aged 40 and over will be able to book in for their life-saving booster and will be invited two months on from their second dose, a month in advance of becoming eligible.
“There is a lot we do not know about the Omicron variant but experts believe that even if existing vaccines are less effective they will give protection.
“So I would urge anyone eligible and invited to come forward as soon as possible, and to keep checking for appointments in their area.”
While mild side effects are common, reports in the US suggest some people might be experiencing dehydration when they have their jab.
Dr LaTasha Perkins, a family physician in Washington, told: “People have different symptoms when they get their immunizations, but I have heard of people feeling a little bit thirsty.
“That’s not an uncommon finding.”
The reports are from the US and a British doctor said she was not aware of the complication.
Dr Sarah Jarvis, GP and Clinical Director of , told The Sun: “I definitely haven’t heard anyone complain of this, nor have I seen any research which suggests this is the case.”
There are a couple of theories as to why this “side effect” - which has not been confirmed or seen in clinical trials - may occur.
Natasha Bhuyan, a physician at primary care US-based practice One Medical, said: “If someone is nervous about the vaccine, that can cause dry mouth, as anxiety is linked to dry mouth.”
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It could be because a common side effect of the jab is a fever.
When someone’s temperature shoots up, it can lead to dehydration.
Dr Vivek Cherian previously told : “A fairly common side effect after getting vaccinated is developing a fever, which can lead to fluid loss and dehydration via sweating.”
Experts said there is no reason to be concerned if you become a little more thirsty after your jab, especially if it’s as fixable as drinking some more water.
Dr Perkins said: “Some people have zero symptoms other than their arm being sore. Others feel sluggish or tired, or they mount a fever.
“But keep in mind: It’s only your immune system responding.”
Thirst has not been acknowledged as a genuine side effect of the Covid jab.
But, on the other hand, people are generally encouraged to keep their hydration levels up around the time of the jab.
Without being hydrated, the jab side effects like headache may be exacerbated.
Other lesser known “side effects” of vaccination have been identified by doctors, including changes to periods and "Covid toes".
In terms of booster jabs, it may be the case that people feel more unwell than their first two doses due to the “mix and matching” of Astra Zeneca and Pfizer.
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Boosters are being given as the key defence against the new super strain Omicron, which is expected to dodge immunity to some extent.
The programme is being expanded to all adults over the age of 18, with all invites sent by the end of January.